young gentleman; but Randal's remark was an appeal to his
habitual urbanity, and he replied with well-bred readiness, "Let us be
companions so far."

Randal accepted the arm proffered to him; and Lord L'Estrange, as is usual
with one long absent from his native land, bore part as a questioner in
the dialogue that ensued.

"Egerton is always the same man, I suppose--too busy for illness, and too
firm for sorrow?"

"If he ever feel either he will never stoop to complain. But indeed, my
dear Lord, I should like much to know what you think of his health."

"How? You alarm me!"

"Nay, I did not mean to do that; and, pray, do not let him know that I
went so far. But I have fancied that he looks a little worn and
suffering."

"Poor Audley!" said L'Estrange, in a tone of deep affection. "I will sound
him, and, be assured, without naming you; for I know well how little he
likes to be supposed capable of human infirmity. I am obliged to you for
your hint--obliged to you for your interest in one so dear to me."

And Harley's voice was more cordial to Randal than it had ever been
before. He then began to inquire what Randal thought of the rumors that
had reached himself as to the probable defeat of the government, and how
far Audley's spirits were affected by such risks. But Randal here, seeing
that Harley could communicate nothing, was reserved and guarded.

"Loss of office could not, I think, affect a man like Audley," observed
Lord L'Estrange. "He would be as great in opposition--perhaps greater; and
as to emoluments--"

"The emoluments are good," interposed Randal, with, a half sigh.

"Good enough, I suppose, to pay him back about a tenth of what his place
costs our magnificent friend--no, I will say one thing for English
statesmen, no man among them ever yet was the richer for place."

"And Mr. Egerton's private fortune must be large, I take for granted,"
said Randal, carelessly.

"It ought to be, if he has time look to it."

Here they passed by the hotel in which lodged the Count di Peschiera.

Randal stopped. "Will you excuse me for an instant? As we are passing this
hotel, I will just leave my card here." So saying, he gave his card to a
waiter lounging by the door. "For the Count di Peschiera," said he, aloud.

L'Estrange started; and as Randal again took his arm, said,

"So that Italian lodges here? and you know him?"

"I know him but slightly, as one knows any foreigner who makes a
sensation."

"He